Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has expressed India’s interest in working closely with Bangladesh’s interim government. 

He expressed optimism about the bilateral relationship moving in a positive and constructive direction.

Misri made these remarks on Monday (December 9), following meetings with Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain and Foreign Secretary Jasim Uddin at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka.

Speaking to the media, Misri said, “I came to Dhaka at the invitation of Foreign Secretary Jasim Uddin to advance discussions at this important juncture in our bilateral relations. Since the political transition in Bangladesh in August, this is the first official foreign secretary-level meeting with the new government. Our talks today provided an opportunity for an open and constructive exchange of views.”

Misri also said, “Our aspiration is to maintain positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial relations that have been a hallmark of our shared history. This relationship is and will continue to be people-centric, benefiting citizens of both countries.”

Highlighting the areas of cooperation, including trade, electricity, water sharing, energy, development assistance, consular services, and cultural exchanges, Misri said, “We must continue to work on these fronts to strengthen our partnership further.”

Expressing India’s desire to collaborate with the interim government, Misri stated, “India is committed to working closely with Bangladesh’s interim government. We discussed recent developments, including concerns over minority issues, which the Bangladeshi authorities have assured will be addressed.”

The Indian Foreign Secretary also mentioned recent unfortunate incidents affecting the two countries. “We discussed attacks on religious, cultural, and diplomatic fronts. Both sides have shown a constructive mindset, and we are hopeful that our relations will move towards a positive and cooperative future,” he added.

Misri arrived in Dhaka on a short visit earlier on Monday and is set to depart later tonight.

BDST: 1754 HRS, DEC 09, 2024
MSK/SMS